How Do You Store Cilantro In The Refrigerator

You can store cilantro in the refrigerator to keep it fresh for weeks if you do it right.
 
The key to storing cilantro in the refrigerator is treating it like a bouquet of flowers rather than just tossing it in a drawer.
 
If you want to know how to store cilantro in the refrigerator properly, the method you choose depends on whether you plan to use it within a few days or want it to last much longer.
 
In this post, we’ll walk through the best ways to store cilantro in the refrigerator, common mistakes that make it slimy, and how to revive it if it starts to wilt.
 
Let’s get into it.
 

How to Store Cilantro in the Refrigerator So It Lasts

Storing cilantro in the refrigerator comes down to one core principle: keep the leaves dry and give the stems a drink.
 
When you store cilantro in the refrigerator using the right technique, you can get anywhere from one to three weeks of freshness instead of a sad, yellow mess after four days.
 
Here are the best methods to store cilantro in the refrigerator.
 

1. The Bouquet Method (Best for Long-Term Storage)

This is the gold standard when you store cilantro in the refrigerator.
 
Start by trimming the bottom stems by about an inch with a sharp knife.
 
Grab a jar or a tall glass and fill it with an inch or two of cold water.
 
Place the cilantro stems down in the water, just like flowers in a vase.
 
Loosely cover the leaves with a plastic bag and secure it with a rubber band.
 
Now place the jar in the refrigerator, ideally in the door or on a shelf where it won’t get knocked over.
 
Change the water every couple of days, and you can store cilantro in the refrigerator this way for up to three weeks.
 

2. The Damp Paper Towel Method

If you don’t have room for a jar, you can still store cilantro in the refrigerator using paper towels.
 
Lay out a few slightly damp paper towels and place the dry cilantro sprigs on top.
 
Roll them up gently, then place the roll inside a zip-top bag or an airtight container.
 
The damp towel provides just enough moisture without soaking the leaves.
 
When you store cilantro in the refrigerator this way, it stays fresh for about a week to ten days.
 

3. The Airtight Container Method

For a quick and easy option, you can store cilantro in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
 
Make sure the cilantro is completely dry before it goes in because excess water is the enemy here.
 
Line the container with a dry paper towel to absorb any condensation.
 
Seal it up and place it in the crisper drawer.
 
This method works well if you plan to use your cilantro within five to seven days.
 

4. Freezing Cilantro for Later

If you bought more cilantro than you can use, you can also store cilantro in the refrigerator by freezing it.
 
Chop the leaves finely and pack them into ice cube trays with a little water or olive oil.
 
Once frozen, pop the cubes into a freezer bag.
 
This isn’t the best way to store cilantro in the refrigerator if you want fresh leaves for garnish, but it’s perfect for cooking.
 

Common Mistakes When You Store Cilantro in the Refrigerator

Even when you try to store cilantro in the refrigerator correctly, a few slip-ups can ruin your herbs fast.
 
Here’s what to avoid.
 

1. Washing Before Storing

Never wash cilantro before you store cilantro in the refrigerator.
 
Moisture on the leaves leads to mold and slime.
 
Wait until you’re ready to use it, then rinse and dry.
 

2. Storing It Near Ethylene-Producing Fruits

Fruits like bananas, apples, and tomatoes release ethylene gas.
 
If you store cilantro in the refrigerator near these, the leaves will turn yellow and break down much faster.
 
Keep them separated.
 

3. Using a Wet Bag or Container

A little condensation is fine, but a soaking wet bag will rot your cilantro quickly.
 
Always pat the leaves dry before you store cilantro in the refrigerator.
 

How to Revive Wilted Cilantro

If your cilantro looks a little sad, don’t toss it yet.
 
You can often revive it so you don’t have to worry about how to store cilantro in the refrigerator all over again.
 
Trim the stems and place them in a glass of ice water for about 15 to 30 minutes.
 
The leaves will usually perk right back up.
 
If the stems are slimy or the leaves are brown and mushy, though, it’s too late.
 

So, How Do You Store Cilantro in the Refrigerator?

You store cilantro in the refrigerator by keeping the leaves dry and the stems hydrated.
 
The bouquet method in a jar of water works best for long-term freshness, while the damp paper towel or airtight container method is great for shorter storage.
 
Avoid washing it beforehand, keep it away from ethylene-producing fruits, and change the water every couple of days.
 
Follow these steps and you’ll store cilantro in the refrigerator like a pro, enjoying fresh herbs for weeks instead of days.